Minimalist phone with a few simple apps

Minimalist Phone That Still Has Maps, Banking and WhatsApp

A minimalist phone is a phone built to do less so you can do more with your day. For many people, though, "less" can go too far. Giving up maps, banking, messaging or work apps isn't minimalism, it's inconvenience. Here's how to find a minimalist phone that still has the apps you actually need.

What is a minimalist phone?

A minimalist phone removes most of what makes a regular smartphone distracting: social media, endless feeds, an open web browser and constant notifications. Some minimalist phones are purpose-built devices with a very small set of built-in tools. Others, like a Grow Phone, are real smartphones configured around the apps you choose.

Three types of minimalist phone

  • Purpose-built minimalist phones: simple hardware and a small set of tools. Great for calls and texts, but limited for third-party apps.
  • Basic and flip phones: the simplest option, with almost no apps. See Grow Phone vs. a basic flip phone.
  • A minimalist smartphone: a real smartphone with the browser and open app store removed, and only the apps you choose. This is the middle ground.

What to check before you buy a minimalist phone

  • Your must-have apps: maps, banking, messaging, rideshare, work or school apps. Confirm they work.
  • The browser: is it removed, filtered or just hidden?
  • Who controls changes: how do you add an app later?
  • Total cost: the phone, any membership and cellular service.
  • Support: what happens when an app stops working?

How a Grow Phone works as a minimalist smartphone

A Grow Phone is a real Samsung Galaxy smartphone, U.S. factory-unlocked, with no unrestricted web browser, no social media and no open app store. You choose approved apps such as maps, email, WhatsApp, banking and work apps, and request new ones through the Grow Control app. Our team reviews each request.

For pricing, Grow Control membership and app compatibility, see the Grow Phone page.

Which Grow Phone?

FAQ

Is a minimalist phone the same as a dumb phone?

Not always. A dumb phone usually has very few features. A minimalist smartphone keeps useful apps and removes the distractions. Read what a dumb smartphone is.

Can a minimalist phone have banking apps?

Some can. Banking apps vary, so confirm yours before you buy.

Can I use my own carrier?

Grow Phones are U.S. factory-unlocked Samsung phones. Contact us if you want to confirm your carrier.

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